Atypical measles syndrome (AMS) presents with a sudden onset of symptoms such as high fever, headache, cough, and abdominal pain. A rash typically appears 1 to 2 days later, often starting on the limbs, and swelling of the hands and feet is common, potentially lasting for three months or more. AMS is observed in individuals who did not receive full immunization against measles, which could occur if they were given the outdated killed-virus measles vaccine, known for not providing complete immunity and no longer in use, or if they received a live measles vaccine that became inactive due to improper storage. While an inactivated measles virus doesn't prevent infection, it can alter the disease's presentation, leading to AMS. Due to its symptoms, AMS may be mistaken for other conditions such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, meningococcal infection, various pneumonias, or juvenile arthritis.
